iPod Shuffle sprouts dock-defeating Bud

Top marks to accessory maker Incipio for coming up with a handy adaptor that will allow anyone who owns a second-generation iPod Shuffle to take it travelling without Apple's dock and cables. Dubbed the Bud, the adaptor has a USB port on one end and a special 3.5mm jack on the other ready for data transfer and recharging.

Just slot the Bud into the Shuffle's earphone socket and plug both into a spare USB port on your computer and you're away. Simplicity itself.

Available now, Incipio wants just $6 for the product, though it usually retails for $8. Postage is extra, of course. ®